Three Top Sunscreens Flunk Safety Test
Three popular sunscreen brands have failed Which?’s latest safety checks, casting doubt on their sun protection claims. Asda, Calypso, and Bondi Sands all stumbled in the watchdog’s rigorous tests for SPF and UVA defence.
Which? Uncovers Shocking SPF Shortfalls
- Asda Protect Moisturising Sun Lotion SPF30 High: Failed twice, despite Asda disputing the findings and providing independent tests showing SPF 31.5.
- Calypso Press & Protect Sun Lotion SPF30: Only delivered two-thirds of its claimed SPF30, although the brand insists it meets EU safety standards.
- Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Fragrance-Free Face Sunscreen: Performed poorly, missing both its SPF claim and minimum UVA protection levels. Bondi Sands refused to comment.
Budget Brands Deliver the Goods
Not all sunscreens flopped. Budget supermarket stars shone in the tests:
- Lidl’s Cien Sun Spray SPF30 (£3.29 for 200ml) scored top marks for skin protection.
- Aldi’s Lacura SPF30 Sun Lotion (£2.49 for 200ml) passed both SPF and UVA checks with flying colours.
- Lidl’s Cien Kids Sensitive Sunscreen Spray 50+ (£3.29 for 200ml) also nailed its protection promises.
Brands Defend Their Products
Asda hit back, saying:
“We recently had our Asda Protect Moisturising Sun Lotion SPF 30 High re-tested by a leading external provider using internationally recognised testing methods. These results confirmed a sun protection factor of 31.5. We do not recognise Which?’s published results.”
Calypso stood firm, declaring all its products are independently tested and comply with EU standards. Bondi Sands has remained silent on the controversy.
This summer, don’t gamble with your skin. Choose your sunscreen wisely and look beyond big brand names for real protection in the sun.
